What is RFP?
Request for Proposal
An RFP (Request for Proposal) is a detailed tender document asking bidders to submit technical and financial proposals for a defined project or service.
What is an RFP?
A Request for Proposal is a tender document used when the buyer wants bidders to propose how they will deliver, not just a price. It sets out the requirement in detail and explains how proposals will be judged.
In India, RFPs are common for IT systems, consultancy, outsourced services and large projects. The term is also used loosely for the full tender document in many tenders.
What an RFP contains
- Instructions to bidders, timelines and submission method
- Scope of work and technical requirements
- Pre-qualification and technical evaluation criteria
- Evaluation method, such as L1 or QCBS
- Formats for technical and financial proposals
- Draft contract, payment terms, penalties and service levels
Tips for bidders
Start with the eligibility and evaluation sections, then read the scope. Build a compliance list of every “shall” and “must” in the RFP.
Note the service levels and penalties, and price their risk into your bid. Raise unclear points at the pre-bid meeting rather than making assumptions.
Common questions
Common questions about RFP in government tenders.
A tender is the overall process of inviting bids. An RFP is a type of tender document used when proposals are judged on more than price.
An RFP asks for detailed proposals. An RFQ asks for price quotations for defined items or, in project procurement, for qualifications to shortlist bidders.
It varies by buyer and value. The NIT and RFP state the deadline, which a corrigendum may extend.
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